In Conversation with J.R. Stokes: Behind Pam, a Gritty Queer Drama About Fatherhood and Survival

Join us for an in-depth conversation with filmmaker J.R. Stokes (@sidscinematics), the writer and director of Pam, a raw and intimate portrayal of a queer sex worker navigating fatherhood, addiction, and a mid-life crisis during their son’s 18th birthday week. Inspired by the cinematic styles of Sean Baker and Darren Aronofsky, Pam explores resilience, vulnerability, and the human struggle to balance survival with love. J.R. shares their creative process, challenges in telling this deeply personal story, and what drew them to such complex characters.